Reformist Pezeshkian wins in Iran's presidential runoff
NPR Online NewsJUL 3 2024
Masoud Pezeshkian Elected Iran's President
The Spin
Narrative A
While there are question marks about how much he can achieve, Pezeshkian's election could see a more pluralistic Iran where repression is eased and the country has healthier ties with the West, including the possibility that Iran will better engage in nuclear discussions.
Narrative B
Pezeshkian's victory will create little change in Iran. Despite his campaign promises, the country is still controlled by the Islamic theocracy of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his cast of conservative hardliners. Pezeshkian has vowed not to challenge the existing structures.